Absinthe (/ˈæbsɪnθ, -sæ̃θ/, French: [apsɛ̃t] ( listen)) is an anise-flavoured spirit derived from several plants, including the flowers and leaves of Artemisia absinthium ("grand wormwood"), together with green anise, sweet fennel, and other medicinal and culinary herbs.

How does absinthe make you feel?

In addition to hallucinations, absinthe was also associated with a number of negative psychotropic effects, including mania and psychosis. These were thought to result in violent and erratic behavior. Absinthe was even said to cause physical symptoms, such as facial contractions, numbness, and seizures.

Why is absinthe illegal in the US?

Why was absinthe banned for 100 years? ... In the U.S., absinthe alcohol is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and the reason it was banned for so long has to do with one particular ingredient. Absinthe contains thujone, a chemical found in several edible plants — including tarragon, sage, and wormwood.